JP2017507325A - Method, apparatus and system for detecting exposure of electronic devices to moisture - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed are systems, apparatus, and methods for detecting moisture in an electronic device. The apparatus can include a housing and a display that define the outer and inner surfaces of the electronic device. The apparatus can further include an integrated circuit (IC) in the electronic device that includes the control element. The device can also include a moisture sensor including an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, or both. A moisture sensor, which can also be part of the IC, can detect moisture in the electronic device in cooperation with the control element. [Selection] Figure 3

Description

Cross-reference of related applications

  This application is based on US patent application Ser. No. 14/320799 (“799 application”) entitled “APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR DETECTING AND REACTING TO EXPOSURE OF AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE TO MOISTURE” filed on July 1, 2014. It is also a part continuation application. The “799 Application” is “APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR DETECTING AND REACTING TO EXPOSURE OF AN ELECTRONIC” filed on January 8, 2014, which has already been issued as US Pat. No. 8,773,271 on July 8, 2014. This is a continuation of US patent application Ser. No. 14/150534 (also referred to as “534 application”) entitled “DEVICE TO MOISTURE”. The disclosures of the “799 Application” and “534 Application” are all incorporated herein by reference.

  The present disclosure relates generally to methods, apparatus, and systems that detect and respond to exposure of electronic devices to moisture and electronic devices using such methods and / or systems.

  In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a system for detecting exposure of an electronic device to moisture (eg, liquids, vapors, etc.) (eg, moisture entering the electronic device through an entry point such as a port, seam, crack, etc.). In addition to moisture detection, the system can also be configured to change or vary the operation of the electronic device. Similarly, in the method for detecting exposure of an electronic device to moisture, the operation method of the electronic device can be varied or changed when a predetermined amount of moisture is detected. Various aspects of a system and method for detecting exposure of an electronic device to moisture are disclosed.

  The term “moisture” is used throughout this disclosure, which means various liquids and vapors. Without limitation, moisture can include water, aqueous solutions (eg, salt solutions, acidic solutions, basic solutions, beverages, etc.), water vapor, or other aqueous materials (eg, moisture, mist, mist, etc.). . Organic liquids and vapors including conductive organic substances (eg organic solvents and low molecular weight organic compounds) can also be included in moisture, and various other substances or conditions that can harm electronic devices or their components. Can be included.

  The moisture sensing system can be used in conjunction with a variety of different types of electronic devices or can be incorporated into those electronic devices. Electronic devices include, but are not limited to, portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, e-book readers, tablet computers, laptop computers; agricultural equipment, irrigation, public safety, military, oil and gas industries, Electronic devices that are likely to be exposed to moisture or even more likely to be used in environments such as transportation, maritime applications (by rail, trucks, etc.); and various others Examples include electronic devices used in applications.

  In some embodiments, the moisture sensing system can include a moisture sensor, a control element, a heating element, a warning element, a switch, or any combination thereof. Control elements, heating elements, warning elements, switches, power supplies to these mechanisms, and electrical connections and other components of the moisture detection system are configured to be moisture resistant (eg, by applying a moisture resistant coating, etc.). be able to. The moisture sensor can also be configured to be moisture resistant (eg, by sealing each portion of the moisture sensor, applying a moisture resistant coating, etc.).

  By using a moisture sensor, moisture detection can be performed in an environment where an electronic device in which the moisture sensor and the moisture sensor are related (or the moisture sensor is a part thereof) is placed. The moisture sensor can be located within the electronic device, can be exposed on the inner surface of the electronic device, can be exposed on the outer surface of the electronic device, or some of them can be combined. The moisture sensor is a capacitive sensor configured to measure the dielectric properties of the ambient conditions to which the electronic device is exposed (ie detect moisture), and measure the magnetic properties of the electronic device (ie detect moisture) ) Inductive sensors, or both. In one specific embodiment, the moisture sensor comprises one or more capacitive sensors, each capacitive sensor being incorporated in an integrated circuit. In another embodiment, the moisture sensor comprises one or more capacitive sensors, each capacitive sensor having a sensor element and a shield connected to the input port of the integrated circuit. The capacitive sensor can be configured to detect a change in dielectric constant between two parallel electrodes. In yet another embodiment, the moisture sensor comprises an inductive sensor comprising a coil connected to an integrated circuit that is configured to generate a magnetic field and detect a change in permeability. In yet another embodiment, the moisture sensor can include an inductive component and / or a capacitive component, which can also be used in implementing one or more other functions in addition to moisture sensing. More specifically, as an example, moisture detection can also be performed (e.g., by a capacitive sensing method and / or an inductive sensing method) using one or more antennas of the electronic device.

  The control element can control the operation of other components of the moisture sensing system. The control element may be dedicated to the moisture detection system or may include a processing element of an electronic device used with the moisture detection system.

  The alerting element can be operated under the control of the control element and can be configured to generate one or more signals indicating that the electronic device has been exposed to moisture. In some embodiments, the alerting element can be configured to notify individuals using the electronic device. The notification content includes that the electronic device has been exposed to an amount of moisture that exceeds the ambient moisture content, that the amount of moisture to which the electronic device has been exposed has exceeded a single exposure threshold for moisture, for a certain period of time (for example, electronic The cumulative amount of moisture that the electronic device has been exposed over the lifetime of the device, the past year, the past 6 months, the past month, etc.) exceeds the total allowable exposure, The type of moisture that the electronic device is currently exposed to, the amount of moisture that the electronic device is currently exposed to, the length of time that the electronic device was / was exposed to moisture during a specific moisture exposure event, constant The total amount of time the electronic device has been exposed to moisture over a period of time (eg, the lifetime of the electronic device, the past year, the past 6 months, the past month, etc., etc.) Additional information about the exposure of an electronic device to moisture or any combination thereof, and the like. In this specification, any of the above-described moisture thresholds may be referred to as a “moisture event threshold”. In embodiments where the electronic device is configured for wireless communication (eg, mobile phone, smartphone, tablet computer device, portable digital music player, radio, wireless car entry device (ie, car key), etc.), the alert element is It can also be configured to notify the remote monitoring service that the electronic device has been exposed to a moisture content that meets or exceeds the moisture event threshold.

  The switch can be operated under the control of a moisture sensor or control element and may be configured to move between a normal position and a moisture event position. When the switch is in the normal position, the electronic device can perform normal operation. In this case, the switch allows the flow of power from the power source of the electronic device to its main electronic component (eg, an electronic component that allows the electronic device to function as intended). When the switch is in the moisture event position, power transfer from the power source to at least some circuits of the electronic device (eg, electronic components that allow the electronic device to function as intended) is stopped by the switch. sell. In some embodiments, when the switch is in the moisture event position, the switch may allow power to be transferred from the power source to the rest of the moisture sensing system.

  In some embodiments, changing the orientation of the switch causes a mechanical action in the electronic device that temporarily seals and detects one or more of the electronic device's components that are sensitive to moisture. Exposure to exposed moisture can be avoided.

  In another aspect, a method of responding to exposure of an electronic device to an amount of moisture that meets or exceeds a moisture event threshold includes monitoring the amount of moisture to which the electronic device is exposed. Monitoring may be performed continuously or periodically. When the amount of moisture exceeds a predetermined moisture event threshold, the normal operation mode of the electronic device may be stopped and the moisture event mode of the electronic device may be started.

  When the electronic device exits its normal mode of operation, power supply from the power source (eg, battery, super capacitor, fuel cell, photovoltaic cell, etc.) to one or more components of the electronic device may be stopped. This shutdown of power can protect these components from damage (eg, damage due to short circuits, accelerated corrosion that can be caused by water or other types of moisture, etc.). In some embodiments, this moisture event mode of the electronic device may include a complete shutdown of the electronic device. In other embodiments, the moisture event mode of the electronic device can include a safety mode, in which the electronic device is exposed to certain components of the electronic device (e.g., components configured to be moisture resistant or exposed to moisture). However, it is possible to continue the operation of components that are difficult to break down). In some embodiments, the electronic device operates in a safe mode so that the moisture detection system continues to operate while all other components of the electronic device (ie, components not involved in the moisture detection system) are stopped. Sometimes it is possible to do.

  When the electronic device enters a safety mode or a moisture event mode, the electronic device or a moisture detection system associated with the electronic device can generate a notification. Notifications include, but are not limited to, user-recognizable alerts, signal generation and transmission of the signal to a remote monitoring service (eg, via email, SMS text message, MMS text message, etc.), or Combinations can be included.

  In embodiments where moisture monitoring continues while the electronic device is in a moisture event mode, full operation of the electronic device may be allowed to resume once the amount of moisture to which the electronic device is exposed falls to an acceptable level. In such an embodiment, when the detected moisture amount falls below a predetermined reset threshold that may be the same as or different from the moisture event threshold, the electronic device's moisture event mode is stopped and the electronic device's normal operating mode is restarted. You may let them.

  Also disclosed is a program or application (ie, “app”) that is activated or executed in response to detecting a moisture content that meets or exceeds a moisture event threshold. Such a program or application can perform each function related to exposure of the electronic device to moisture. By way of a non-limiting example, a user can be provided with information about exposure of the electronic device to moisture by a program or application that is executed or launched upon exposure of the electronic device. Such information includes, but is not limited to, information about the amount of moisture to which the electronic device has been exposed, information about previous exposure of the electronic device to moisture, cumulative moisture exposure information, diagnostic information and / or historical information, etc. Is mentioned. As another non-limiting example, information about moisture resistant elements of an electronic device by a program or application that is activated or executed upon exposure of the electronic device to an amount of moisture that meets or exceeds a predetermined moisture event threshold ( For example, the user may be provided with information such as when a component of the electronic device was last coated with a moisture resistant coating.

  Other aspects of the disclosed subject matter and features and advantages of various aspects will be apparent to one skilled in the art from consideration of the following description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

It is the schematic of a moisture detection system. FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of an integrated circuit having a plurality of ports. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of an integrated circuit connected to a heating element. It is a figure which shows the system provided with the integrated circuit and the moisture sensor. 1 shows an embodiment of a system comprising an integrated circuit and an induction coil. FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of a system comprising an integrated circuit and an induction coil. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a system with an integrated circuit disposed on a substrate. It is sectional drawing of the package provided with the integrated circuit. FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an embodiment of an electronic device comprising a moisture sensor and optionally a moisture sensing system.

  An embodiment of the system 10 is illustrated with reference to FIG. Herein, the system 10 is also referred to as a “moisture detection system”. Moisture detection system 10 configured for use with an electronic device (eg, a portable electronic device or an electronic device that is likely to be exposed to moisture or expected to be used in an anticipated environment). Can be configured to detect whether the electronic device is exposed to moisture. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the moisture detection system 10 includes a moisture sensor 12, a control element 14, a warning element 16, and a switch 18. As described in more detail below, the system 10 can also include a heating element 19 that generates heat in response to moisture being detected in the electronic device (ie, a “moisture event”). In some embodiments, the moisture detection system 10 can also include a dedicated power source (eg, a capacitor, super capacitor, battery, etc.).

  The moisture sensor 12 makes it possible to detect moisture and monitor the amount of moisture in the environment where the moisture sensor 12 is placed. The moisture sensor 12 may be configured to be used in combination with an electronic device. The moisture sensor 12 (and other components of the moisture detection system 10) can be configured to operate regardless of whether the electronic device is turned on or off (eg, the moisture detection system 10 is a standby power source or dedicated device for the electronic device). This is the case when receiving power supply from a power source or the like). Various embodiments of the moisture sensor 12 may be used in the moisture sensing system 10 incorporating the teachings of the present disclosure. By way of non-limiting example, moisture sensor 12 can include one or more capacitive sensors, one or more inductive sensors, or any combination thereof.

  The moisture sensor 12 can communicate with the control element 14, and the control element 14 processes a signal from the moisture sensor 12 and also has a certain condition (for example, a moisture amount that meets or exceeds a predetermined moisture event threshold or a predetermined reset threshold). With the detection of a signal indicating the following amount of moisture, etc., it can be configured to execute instructions that control the operation of other components of the moisture sensing system 10. The control element 14 can include a dedicated processing element (such as a microcontroller with embedded firmware) or can include the processor of the electronic device with which the moisture sensing system 10 is associated. The control element 14 can further include a logic circuit such as the logic circuit 212 shown in FIG.

  One component of the moisture sensing system 10 that can operate under the control of the control element 14 is a warning element 16. The alerting element 16 can be configured to alert the user of the electronic device of exposure of the electronic device to moisture. In such embodiments, warning element 16 can include a visual alarm, an audible alarm, a vibration alarm, and the like. In some embodiments, the warning element 16 includes a display or monitor capable of displaying a warning (eg, a display or monitor of an electronic device with which the moisture detection system 10 is associated, or a portion of the moisture detection system 10). Electronic device display or monitor, etc.). In embodiments where the warning element 16 comprises a display or monitor, the control element 14 is programmed or application (ie, “app”) in response to the moisture sensor 12 detecting a moisture content that meets or exceeds the moisture event threshold. , The warning element 16 can function as a user interface in cooperation with the control element 14 (eg, display an image or receive input (if the display or monitor is touch sensitive)). ) In embodiments where the control element 14 launches a program or application in response to detecting a moisture amount that meets or exceeds the moisture event threshold, the alerting element 16 may also display information regarding the exposure of the electronic device to moisture. By way of non-limiting example, a program or application that is executed or activated upon exposure of an electronic device can provide information to the user about exposure of the electronic device to moisture. Such information includes, but is not limited to, information about the amount of moisture the electronic device has been exposed to, depth of moisture exposure, information about previous exposure of the electronic device to moisture, cumulative moisture exposure information, diagnostic information, Historical information, other information regarding exposure of the electronic device to moisture, or any combination thereof. Information provided to the user can be stored locally on the electronic device and can be used at the next access by the user of the electronic device. As another example, information about one or more moisture resistance characteristics of an electronic device (e.g., electronic) by a program or application launched upon exposure of the electronic device to an amount of moisture that meets or exceeds a moisture event threshold. The user may be provided with information such as when the component of the device was last coated with a moisture resistant coating. In another example, the control element 14 may execute a program or application that provides a user with instructions on how to minimize moisture related damage to the electronic device with which the moisture sensing system 10 is associated. Such instructions include, for example, instructions for a protocol for removing or drying moisture from the particular electronic device with which the moisture detection system 10 is associated. Other examples of information provided by the control element 14 to the user from the warning element 16 include, but are not limited to, warranty information, repair information, and the effects of damage that may result from exposure of the electronic device to moisture. Advertising and other water related information.

  The alert element 16 may include a wireless communication element and may be configured to send a signal to a remote monitoring service. The wireless communication element may include the main communication element of the electronic device with which the moisture detection system 10 is associated, or may include a dedicated wireless communication system. In any embodiment, the warning element 16 identifies an appropriate recipient of information about the exposure of the electronic device to an amount of moisture above ambient moisture under the control of the control element 14 and identifies that information as its intent. Can be sent to recipients. The radio communication element is a radio frequency (RF) such as GSM, TDMA (time division multiple access), CDMA (code division multiple access), LTE (long term evaluation), 3G, 4G, NFC (near field communication). You may comprise so that it may communicate by a communication system. Alternatively, the wireless communication element communicates by optical means such as an infrared (IR) signal, an optical local area network (LAN) system, or an optical personal area network (PAN) system. You may comprise so that it may perform. Examples of wireless communication elements include, but are not limited to, radio frequency (RF) communication components such as a WiFi transmitter (ie, a system based on the IEEE 802.xxx protocol), such as a cellular transmitter, a Bluetooth transmitter, and the like.

  The switch 18 can also be operated in accordance with a signal from the control element 14. Alternatively, the switch 18 may be directly controlled by a signal from the moisture sensor 12. In any case, the switch 18 causes the moisture detection system 10 to be associated from the power source 816 (see FIG. 9) (eg, primary battery, rechargeable battery, spare battery, dedicated battery, super capacitor, fuel cell, photovoltaic cell, etc.) or moisture. The detection system 10 can limit the transfer of power to moisture detection components (eg, electronic components) of the electronic devices that are part of the detection system 10. In some embodiments, the control element 14 can be configured to determine the orientation of the switch 18 and thus the portion of the electronic device and / or moisture sensing system 10 where power is to be turned off (eg, program settings). can do).

  The switch 18 can have a normal position or orientation and at least one moisture event position or orientation. When the switch 18 is in the normal position, the electronic device can perform normal operation. That is, the switch allows power to flow from the power source of the electronic device to its main electronic component (eg, an electronic component that allows the electronic device to function as intended). When in a moisture event location, at least a portion of the circuitry of the electronic device from the power source 816 (eg, an electronic component that allows the electronic device to function as intended, one or more communication ports, a display, a sensor, a camera , Speaker, microphone, etc.) can be stopped by switch 18. In some embodiments, when the switch 18 is in the moisture event position, power transfer from the power source 20 to the rest of the moisture sensing system 10 may be possible. If the operation of the main power source of the electronic device is adversely affected by moisture, power may be transmitted to the rest of the moisture detection system 10 by a spare battery, a capacitor, a super capacitor, or a battery dedicated to the moisture detection system 10. is there.

  One or more of the control element 14, warning element 16, switch 18, power supply 816, heating element 19, and electrical connection / other components of the moisture detection system 10 may be one or more types of moisture (eg, water , Aqueous solution, water vapor, vapor of aqueous solution, organic liquid or organic vapor, etc.). For example, a moisture resistant coating, such as a moisture impermeable coating or a substantially impermeable coating (eg, a substituted or unsubstituted poly (p-xylylene) polymer (eg, parylene), etc.) One or more of the above may be applied. The moisture sensor 12 can also be configured to have moisture resistance (for example, the moisture sensor may be entirely or partially coated with moisture resistant coating).

  According to various embodiments, the moisture sensing system 10 can be calibrated based on one or more parameters. More specifically, one or more threshold level settings that can define a moisture event can be recalibrated based on one or more parameters. For example, the moisture detection system 10 can be calibrated based on environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature where it is placed. More specifically, the moisture detection system 10 may be configured to be recalibrated when subjected to environmental changes, such as when moved from a dry environment (eg, a desert) to a relatively humid environment. it can. It should be noted that calibration of the moisture detection system 10 includes user-initiated calibration, user verification calibration, automatic calibration, manual calibration, and the like. Furthermore, the moisture detection system 10 can utilize hysteresis to prevent unnecessary and quick switching between moisture event “on” levels and moisture event “off” levels. In other words, once a moisture event is detected at the first moisture level, the moisture level detected by the moisture sensing system 10 needs to be below the first moisture level before the moisture event is mitigated.

  As those skilled in the art will appreciate, moisture (eg, water) may exhibit dielectric properties that are different from air (ie, stronger than air). As will be further appreciated, the capacitance sensor can be configured to measure dielectric strength, and therefore moisture sensing can be performed using the capacitance sensor. As a non-limiting example, a capacitive sensor can include two parallel electrodes (eg, two parallel plates), with the voltage at one electrode responding to an alternating voltage being carried to the other electrode. Can be detected. By using the detected voltage value, it is possible to determine which substance or both substances are present between two parallel electrodes. For example, the voltage value detected when only air exists between the parallel electrodes is different from the voltage value detected when both air and liquid exist between the parallel electrodes.

  According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the moisture sensor 12 may include a capacitance sensor, and the capacitance sensor may be configured to generate an output that can indicate moisture in the vicinity thereof. . It should also be noted that the output of the capacitance sensor can vary depending on the amount of water nearby. According to one embodiment, the moisture sensor 12 may include at least one capacitive sensor, which may be part of an integrated circuit (IC) or integrated. It may be connected to a circuit. More specifically, in one embodiment, the IC can be configured to place a capacitive sensor inside the IC, thereby measuring a dielectric near (eg, directly above) the IC.

  In another embodiment, the moisture sensor 12 can include at least one capacitive sensor, wherein at least a portion of the capacitive sensor is external to the IC and connected to one or more input ports of the IC. Yes. In this embodiment, the moisture sensor 12 can include a shield that at least partially surrounds the sensor element, where there is a gap between the sensor element and the shield, where moisture will be detected.

  According to one embodiment, the IC is connected to a heating element (e.g., heating element 19), and the heating element can be configured to drive with moisture detection. The heating element can be configured to generate heat, which facilitates drying of at least a portion of the electronic device (ie, prevents moisture from remaining).

  FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of an IC 101 having a plurality of ports 102. According to one embodiment, port 102 may include a plurality of input ports 102A-102G and at least one output port 102H. Although the number of ports of the IC 101 is 8 in the figure, the number of input ports and output ports of the IC can be arbitrary. As will be described in more detail below, the IC 101 can include or be connected to a sensor for detecting moisture near it.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a moisture detection system 200 that includes an IC 201 having a plurality of input ports 202A-202G and an output port 202H. IC 201 may further include an oscillator 206 having an input connected to port 202A, which is further connected to ground voltage GRND via resistor R and capacitor C. In one example, oscillator 206 may include a low power RC oscillator configured to carry a sine wave. The IC 201 also includes a capacitance sensor 208 having one input connected to the port 202B and the other input connected to the port 202C. As described in more detail below, port 202B can be connected to a sensor element and port 202C can be connected to a shield. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the capacitive sensor 208, which can include an AC measurement circuit, can also be configured to measure the dielectric constant between the two electrodes based on the RC time constant decay rate. . Capacitance sensor 208 can also be configured to carry an output signal indicative of the dielectric constant between two electrodes (eg, a sensor element and a shield).

  The IC 201 can further include a communication module 210 with one input connected to the port 202E and the other input connected to the port 202F. The IC 201 may further include a logic circuit 212 configured to receive a signal from the capacitance sensor 208, a clock signal from the oscillator 206, and a signal from the communication module 210. In addition, IC 201 can also include a transistor M1 having a gate connected to the output of logic circuit 212, a source connected to ground voltage GRND via port 202D, and a drain connected to output port 202H. . The drain is further connected to supply voltage VCC via port 202G.

  The moisture detection system 200 can also include a heating element 214, which can be any suitable known heating element. According to one embodiment, the heating element 214 may include one or more heating lines as illustrated in FIG. As described above, the heating element 214 can be configured to generate heat in response to a moisture event, thereby facilitating drying of at least a portion of the electronic device (ie, preventing residual moisture). it can). As those skilled in the art will appreciate, corrosion of the device portion can be a function of the length of time the device portion has been exposed to moisture. Therefore, to prevent long-term damage, important but unprotected parts of the electronic device (e.g. speakers, connectors with exposed contact points, and other half that must be masked during the waterproofing process) It may be advantageous to dry the protective component quickly.

  The logic circuit 212 can be configured to determine when a moisture event has occurred and when it has been mitigated. More specifically, based on the signal received from capacitance sensor 208, logic circuit 212, which can be calibrated based on one or more conditions, determines whether moisture is in the vicinity of the capacitance sensor. can do. If it is determined that a moisture event has occurred, the logic circuit 212 can generate a control signal that can cause the transistor M1 to conduct. It should be noted that the logic circuit 212 may be externally programmable through the communication module 210 via, for example, an inter-integrated circuit (I2C) bus or a serial peripheral interface (SPI) bus. It should also be noted that the communication module 210 can be configured to turn the heating element 214 on and off remotely when no moisture event is occurring. IC 201 may further include one or more outputs that are programmable to disable the circuit (eg, upon detection of a moisture event).

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a moisture detection system 300 that includes capacitance sensors 308 connected to a plurality of input ports 102 of an IC (eg, IC 101 shown in FIG. 2). Capacitance sensor 308 includes a sensor element 310 and a shield 312 that at least partially surrounds sensor element 310. An air gap 309 can also be provided between the sensor element 310 and the shield 312 so that moisture can be detected there. At least a portion of the capacitive sensor 308 that can be configured to receive an alternating voltage is surrounded by a shield 312 that can be connected to ground voltage. The shield 312 surrounds the sensor element 310 except where moisture detection is desired. It should be noted that the sensitivity of the capacitive sensor 308 can be increased by increasing the size of the sensor element 310 and shield 312 (ie, by increasing the surface area).

  According to one embodiment, an electronic device can include one or more sensor elements and shields disposed therein and connected to one or more ICs. Furthermore, it should be noted that although the capacitive sensor illustrated in FIG. 4 is located at least partially outside the IC (ie, away from the IC), the present invention is not so limited. Rather, the capacitive sensor with the sensor element and the shield may be present inside the IC. It should be further noted that the moisture detection system 300 can include components similar to those illustrated in the moisture detection system 200 of FIG. More specifically, the moisture sensing system 300 can include, for example, a communication module, logic circuit, oscillator, and / or heating element.

  Capacitance sensors can detect moisture by measuring dielectric strength, while inductive sensors can detect moisture by measuring changes in permeability (ie, air versus liquid). As will be appreciated, the coil can generate a magnetic field when a current is induced in the coil. The formation and decay of the magnetic field can be delayed by the presence of high permeability materials. According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the moisture sensor 12 (see FIG. 1) can also include an inductive sensor. FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a system 400 that includes a substrate 402, an IC 404 disposed on the substrate 402, a plurality of wire bonds 406 (ie, for connecting the IC 404 to the conductive wire 410), and an induction coil 408. Show. Note that each end of induction coil 408 can be wire bonded to IC 404. According to one embodiment, the induction coil 408 can be configured to generate a magnetic field that can extend beyond the boundary of the substrate 402. During the scheduled operation, the IC 404 outputs a pulse to the induction coil 408 (i.e., with a voltage pulse), and can measure a current response that can be varied according to the magnetic field formation and decay rate. The decay rate of the magnetic field can depend on the presence of one or more substances, such as liquid and / or air (ie, the magnetic field response can be changed by a liquid-to-air dielectric). According to one embodiment, the IC 404 can include a calibration pin that can be used to determine the ambient response for the calibration system 400. As will be appreciated, since the temperature of the system 400 can affect the decay rate of the magnetic field, the system 400 can also include a temperature sensor for temperature sensing (not shown in FIG. 5), which is It can be used by the control element in determining whether a moisture event has occurred.

  FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of a system 500 that includes a substrate 502, an IC 504 disposed on the substrate 502, a plurality of wire bonds 506 connected to the IC 504, and an induction coil 508. Note that each end of induction coil 508 can be wire bonded to IC 504. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the induction coil 508 can at least partially surround the wire bond 506 and the conductive wire 510.

  FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a system 600 that includes a substrate 602, an IC 604 disposed on the substrate 602, and a plurality of wire bonds 606 connected to the IC 604. Further, FIG. 7 shows a magnetic field 611 that can be generated by an induction coil (eg, coil 260 or coil 280). The induction coil is shown as a conductor (indicated by “◯” 609) with current flowing into the page and a conductor (indicated by “x” 607) with current flowing out of the page. Please note that.

  FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a system 700 with an exemplary package 701 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. According to one embodiment, the package 701 can include a ball grid array (BGA) package. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, BGA may be advantageous. Because the BGA board can include a printed circuit board for routing signals, the detection coil can be made larger (ie, the degree of detection can be increased), and the detection coil can be simply mounted on the printed circuit board. It is because it can be set as the component which performed the etching. The package 701 includes a BGA substrate 703 connected to the printed circuit board 702 via one or more solder balls 705. The package 701 can further include an IC 704, a wire bond 706, and a seal 710 (eg, an epoxy seal). The induction coil is shown as a conductor (indicated by “◯” 709) with current flowing into the page and as a conductor (indicated by “×” 707) with current flowing out of the page. Please note that.

  Note that although the embodiments shown in FIGS. 5-8 are directed to on-chip induction coils, the invention is not so limited. Rather, embodiments of the present disclosure may also include remote (off-chip) sensing achieved by providing a pulse output to an external loop sensor or air dielectric inductor.

  Another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a memory card (eg, an SD card, a SIM card, etc.) with a capacitive sensor. More specifically, the memory card can include, for example, the moisture detection system 10 shown in FIG. The memory card may be configured to be insertable into the electronic device. Therefore, the use of a memory card may allow moisture to be detected even in an electronic device that has not previously been able to detect moisture. Note that this embodiment may also include an application for interacting with an electronic device.

  FIG. 9 shows that the electronic device functions as intended, such as the moisture sensor 12, the housing 802, the display 804, and its main electronic components (eg, processor, wireless communication element, input and / or output element, conversion element). And an electronic component 800 that includes any other electronic and / or mechanical components. In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 9, the moisture sensor 12 is part of the moisture control system 10, such as that shown in FIG.

  The electronic device 800 can include a portable electronic device, an electronic device that is expected to be used in environments where exposure to moisture is likely or even anticipated, or any other various types of electronic devices. . The housing 802 and the display 804 define at least a portion of the outer surface of the electronic device 800. The moisture sensor 12 may be disposed on or exposed at least to the outer surface of the electronic device 800 in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the moisture sensor 12 is a power source that provides power to the other components of the moisture control system 10 (see FIG. 1) and the main electronic component of the electronic device 800, if any, and the various electronic components of the electronic device 800. Along with 816, the electronic device 800 may be disposed inside. Without limitation, the main electronic components of an electronic device include a processing element 806 (e.g., a microprocessor), a wireless communication system 808 (which may include at least one antenna), and other electronic and / or mechanical components. 812 (for example, a converter such as a speaker or a microphone, a vibrator, a fan, or the like). In the illustrated embodiment, switches 818 are disposed between the power source 816 and the main electronic component, between the power source 816 and the moisture sensor 12, and between the power source 816 and any other component of the moisture sensing system 10. .

  In some embodiments, the electronic device 800 can also include one or more moisture resistant coatings 814. Moisture resistant coating 814 allows the entire outer surface or part of the electronic device 800, the entire surface or part enclosed within the electronic device 800 (e.g., each component surface within the electronic device 800 or each surface of a composite component), Alternatively, both the outer surface and the inner surface may be covered.

  Exposure of electronic device 800 to an amount of moisture that meets or exceeds the moisture event threshold (eg, exposure to moisture at a predetermined danger level, such as 95% or more relative humidity, or other conductive material in the water or liquid state) Various embodiments of the method of detecting and responding to it may include detecting the amount of moisture to which the electronic device has been exposed (eg, using the moisture sensor 12 or the like). Detection may be performed continuously or periodically. If the detected moisture amount (for example, detected by the moisture sensor 12) satisfies or exceeds the moisture event threshold, the normal operation mode of the electronic device 800 may stop and the moisture event mode of the electronic device 800 may start.

  When electronic device 800 exits its normal operating mode, power supply from power supply 816 to one or more electronic components of electronic device 800 may be stopped. The moisture event mode of the electronic device 800 may prevent the power supply of the electronic device 800 from being charged. In some embodiments, this moisture event mode of electronic device 800 may include a complete shutdown of electronic device 800. In other embodiments, the moisture event mode of the electronic device 800 can include a safety mode in which the electronic device 800 is exposed to certain components of the electronic device 800 (e.g., exposed to moisture resistant main electronic components or moisture). Components that are less likely to fail even if they are activated) can continue to operate. In some embodiments, the moisture sensor 12 or possibly by operating the device in a safe mode even while power transfer from the power source 816 to any main electronic component not involved in the moisture sensing system is stopped. For example, other components of the moisture detection system 10 may be able to continue operation.

  When electronic device 800 enters safety mode or moisture event mode, electronic device 800 or moisture detection system 10 associated with electronic device 800 may generate a notification. The notification can include a user-recognizable alert, signal generation and transmission of the signal to a remote monitoring service, or a combination of these services. Without limitation, remote monitoring services provide manufacturers, electronic device sellers / owners / users, parties engaged in electronic device monitoring, renewal, inspection and repair, and electronic device warranty coverage Or any other relevant party that warrants or can be included.

  Alerts recognizable from the user can be provided by physical indications (eg, vision, sound, movement, etc.) on the electronic device. Alternatively, the alert can be sent remotely to a user or monitoring service (eg, sent as a text message, email, instant message, phone call, or any other suitable form of automated electronic communication). Such warnings may simply indicate that a particular electronic device has been exposed to moisture, or may include other information. Other information includes the time the electronic device was exposed to moisture, the type of moisture the electronic device was exposed to, the degree of exposure, the duration of exposure, the number of times the electronic device was exposed to moisture (ie, counting), Cumulative duration of exposure of electronic devices, geographical location of electronic devices at the time of exposure, warranty details, contact information for users and / or owners of electronic devices, and previous exposure of electronic devices to moisture Information on whether there is any other relevant information regarding exposure of electronic devices to moisture. Based on such information, the recipient can use the information itself or assist the user of the electronic device, record the received information, and / or schedule a reminder to the user again.

  In embodiments in which moisture monitoring continues while the electronic device 800 is in the moisture event mode, the electronic device is detected when an acceptable level of moisture (eg, a predetermined reset threshold or a moisture content below a predetermined moisture event threshold) is detected. 800 may be allowed to resume full operation. In such embodiments, the moisture event of the electronic device 800 when the detected moisture level is reduced below a predetermined reset threshold or a predetermined moisture event threshold, or when any other suitable reset condition or combined reset condition is met. The mode may end and the normal operation mode of electronic device 800 may be resumed. Resume of normal operation or full operation of the electronic device 800 may automatically start when a reset condition is satisfied, or the reset of the electronic device 800 may be performed by an individual (for example, a user or an administrator) of the electronic device 30. It may be performed when normal operation is resumed (for example, after an inspection or the like).

  Moisture sensors are inductive sensors, capacitive sensors, vibration accelerometers (recording device drops and throws), optical sensors (eg built-in cameras and infrared emitter / sensor pairs), piezoelectric sensors, microphones, speakers (used as pressure gauges) Conductivity sensor, temperature sensor, humidity sensor (eg mechanical, electrical, gel), sacrificial element or fuse-like element that breaks the circuit connection in the presence of moisture above a certain threshold, It is composed of one or more of wireless communication circuits (eg, GPS receiver circuit, WIFI / Bluetooth receiver circuit, cellular telephone receiver circuit, antenna). Any of these devices can be used with a control circuit to apply Boolean logic to one or more trigger events detected by the sensing device. The nature and material properties of the moisture event will be confirmed by using one or more of the above-described devices in combination or as a Boolean configuration with a control circuit.

  Although many details have been set forth in the foregoing description, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the appended claims. Rather, it should be construed as merely providing information relating to some specific embodiments that may fall within the scope of the appended claims. The features of different embodiments can also be used in combination. Also, other embodiments may be devised as long as they fall within the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the scope defined by each claim is shown and limited only by the meaning of its ordinary language and the legal equivalents of the elements described. All additions, deletions, and modifications to the disclosed subject matter are to be embraced within the scope of the claims as long as they fall within the meaning and scope of the claims.

Claims (20)

A housing and a display defining an outer surface of the electronic device and an inner surface of the electronic device;
An integrated circuit (IC) in the electronic device and comprising a control element;
A moisture sensor comprising at least one of an inductive sensor and a capacitance sensor, wherein the moisture sensor is connected to or is part of the IC and is associated with the control element The moisture sensor and the control element are configured to cooperate to detect moisture in the electronic device.   The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the moisture sensor includes a capacitance sensor.   The capacitance sensor includes a shield that at least partially surrounds the sensing element and is separated from the sensing element by an air gap, the capacitance sensor configured to detect moisture in the air gap. The electronic device according to claim 2.   The electronic device of claim 3, wherein the shield is connected to ground voltage.   The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the moisture sensor comprises an inductive sensor.   The electronic device of claim 5, wherein the inductive sensor comprises an inductive coil configured to at least partially surround the IC and to receive a voltage pulse from the IC.   The electronic device of claim 5, wherein the IC is configured to measure a current response after carrying the voltage pulse to determine whether moisture is present in the vicinity of the IC.   The electronic device of claim 5, further comprising a ball grid array (BGA) package including the inductive sensor.   The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the control element is programmable via a communication port of the IC.   The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the control element of the IC comprises one or more logic circuits.   9. The heating element according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a heating element capable of communicating with the IC and configured to generate heat in response to moisture being detected in the electronic device. The electronic device described.   The electronic device of claim 11, wherein the heating element comprises one or more heating wires.   The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising an oscillator configured to carry a clock signal to the moisture sensor and the control element.   The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one moisture-resistant element that coats at least a part of the moisture sensor. A moisture detection system for use in an electronic device according to any one of claims 2-4,
The integrated circuit (IC) comprises logic circuitry calibrated to determine whether a moisture event has occurred based on the received sensor signal;
The at least one capacitive sensor communicates with the IC and is configured to carry the received sensor signal to the IC and / or the logic circuit of the IC, wherein the received sensor signal is A moisture detection system showing a dielectric constant measured in the vicinity of the at least one capacitive sensor.   16. The moisture detection system according to claim 15, wherein the at least one capacitance sensor is inside the IC and configured to detect moisture in the vicinity of the IC.   The moisture detection system of claim 15, wherein the capacitance sensor is configured to receive a clock signal from an oscillator. In a method of responding to exposure of an electronic device to moisture,
It is monitoring the water | moisture content in the electronic device as described in any one of Claims 1-8 with a moisture sensor, Comprising: At least one of the change of the dielectric constant in the said electronic device and the change of a magnetic permeability is measured. Monitoring including:
Determining whether the amount of moisture in the electronic device exceeds a predetermined threshold based on at least one of the change in dielectric constant and the change in magnetic permeability;
Entering the moisture detection mode of the electronic device when it is determined that the amount of moisture in the electronic device exceeds the predetermined threshold.   The method of claim 18, further comprising heating the interior of the electronic device when it is determined that the amount of moisture in the electronic device exceeds the predetermined threshold.   The method of claim 18, further comprising calibrating one or more moisture event thresholds of the electronic device based on one or more conditions.

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